Hair treatment apparatus

ABSTRACT

A hair treatment apparatus includes a base and a sidewall in direct contact with and extending from the base. The base and sidewall define a cavity configured for receiving a liquid. The hair treatment apparatus further includes a lid coupled to the sidewall opposite to the base, the lid defining an adjustable aperture configured for receiving a portion of hair for treatment in the liquid. The lid includes a first ring, a plurality of plates, and a second ring. The first ring is configured to releasably engage the sidewall and define a central axis. The plurality of plates extend from the first ring toward an aperture, each of the plurality of plates includes a pin. The second ring defines a plurality of slots to receive the pins. Rotation of the second ring causes the plurality of plates to extend toward the longitudinal axis to reduce the diameter of the aperture.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/881,093, filed Jan. 26, 2018, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/451,709, filed Jan. 28, 2017, which are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.

FIELD

This application relates to devices and methods for styling hair and, more specifically, to devices and methods for applying a hot liquid to synthetic braided hair.

BACKGROUND

Generally, when implementing different braided hairstyles, portions of the braided hair may frizz and/or otherwise separate from the braid due to differences in length or texture. These issues may be compounded when implementing extensions for the hair, whether natural or synthetic. For example, upon implementing a hair extension for a braided hairstyle, portions of the tips of the extensions may deflect away from the braid imparting an undesirable look.

In order to smooth and blend loose end portions of the braided hairstyle, application of heat may be necessary. Typical solutions for the application of heat include treatment with a relatively hot or near boiling liquid, such as water. Conventionally, water may be brought to a boil in a first container. Subsequently, the boiling or near boiling water is transferred to a mug or cup. Finally, the mug or cup is brought into proximity with a consumer's braided hairstyle allowing the hot water to penetrate, soften, and otherwise enable management of the braids. Thereafter, the heated braids are smoothed to promote a desirable appearance.

However, as is apparent, the very nature of moving a mug of heated water in close proximity to a consumer's head provides multiple drawbacks. These drawbacks include possible burns due to the heated surface of the mug, possible burns due to leaking and/or spilling of the heated water, and possible burns to a hairstylist attempting to heat and manage the braided hairstyle with the mug of heated water.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment, a lid for a hair treatment apparatus includes a first ring, a plurality of plates, and a second ring. The first ring is configured to releasably engage a sidewall of a body, wherein the first ring defines a central axis. The plurality of plates extend from the first ring toward an aperture, each of the plurality of plates includes a pin extending therefrom. The second ring defines a plurality of slots, each pin of the plurality of plates disposed in a respective one of the plurality of slots. Rotation of the second ring causes the plurality of plates to extend toward the longitudinal axis to reduce the diameter of the aperture, whereby the aperture can be closed around a portion of hair inserted through the aperture.

In another embodiment, a hair treatment apparatus includes a base, a sidewall, and a lid. The sidewall is in direct contact with and extends from the base. The base and sidewall define a cavity configured for receiving a liquid. The lid is coupled to the sidewall opposite to the base. The lid defines an adjustable aperture configured for receiving a portion of hair for treatment in the liquid, whereby the diameter of the aperture can be adjusted to conform to the portion of hair.

In another embodiment, a method of hair treatment includes heating a liquid inside a hair treatment apparatus. The apparatus includes a base, a sidewall in direct contact with and extending from the base, and a lid engaged with the sidewall opposite to the base. The lid has an adjustable aperture configured for receiving a portion of hair for treatment in the liquid. The base and sidewall form a cavity configured for receiving the liquid. The method further includes inserting a portion of hair for treatment into the hair treatment apparatus via the adjustable aperture. The method also includes tightening the adjustable aperture about the portion of hair and allowing a desired amount of time to lapse while the portion of hair is in at least partial contact with the heated liquid. The method also includes removing the portion of hair from the apparatus.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The features of the embodiments described herein will be more fully disclosed in the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments, which are to be considered together with the accompanying drawings wherein like numbers refer to like parts and further wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective front view of a hair treatment apparatus, according to one configuration disclosed herein;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the hair treatment apparatus of FIG. 1, according to one configuration disclosed herein;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an alternate arrangement of the hair treatment apparatus of FIG. 1, according to one configuration disclosed herein;

FIGS. 4A-4C are overhead views of adjustable apertures useable in connection with the hair treatment apparatuses illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, according to one configuration disclosed herein;

FIG. 5 is a diagram presenting a method of hair treatment, according to one configuration disclosed herein;

FIG. 6A is a bottom isometric view of a lid with an adjustable aperture according to one embodiment described herein;

FIG. 6B is another bottom isometric view of the lid of FIG. 6A;

FIG. 6C is a bottom view of the lid of FIG. 6A;

FIG. 7A is a bottom isometric view of a lid with an adjustable aperture according to one embodiment described herein;

FIG. 7B is another bottom isometric view of the lid of FIG. 7A;

FIG. 7C is a bottom view of the lid of FIG. 7A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

This description of the exemplary embodiments is intended to be read in connection with the accompanying drawings, which are to be considered part of the entire written description. In the description, relative terms such as “lower,” “upper,” “horizontal,” “vertical,”, “above,” “below,” “up,” “down,” “top” and “bottom” as well as derivative thereof (e.g., “horizontally,” “downwardly,” “upwardly,” etc.) should be construed to refer to the orientation as then described or as shown in the drawing under discussion. These relative terms are for convenience of description and do not require that the apparatus be constructed or operated in a particular orientation. Terms concerning attachments, coupling and the like, such as “connected” and “interconnected,” refer to a relationship wherein structures are secured or attached to one another either directly or indirectly through intervening structures, as well as both movable or rigid attachments or relationships, unless expressly described otherwise.

As used herein, the terms “extension”, “hair extension”, “woven hair”, “weave material”, and other variants of these terms may refer to synthetic hair, natural hair, and synthetic/natural hair blends for use in hair styling and cosmetics.

As used herein, the terms “heated water” and “near-boiling water”, and their pluralized forms, are used synonymously, and refer to water heated to a temperature sufficient to achieve desirable cosmetic results.

As used herein, the term “heat insulator” and variants thereof refer to any material being generally resistant to the transfer of heat from a first surface to a second surface thereof.

The following detailed description is directed to technologies used for hair treatment and useable in treatment of hair and braided hairstyles. Through an implementation of the various technologies disclosed herein, a hairstyle may be safely treated using heated water. For example, a hair treatment apparatus is provided whereby a stylist or other user may deposit water therein. The apparatus may have a narrow conical portion or lid with an aperture to receive the water.

This hair apparatus will reduce the risk of burning the hands of the stylist as well as the head, scalp and body of the person having their hair styled when dipping hair into the hot water contained therein. The hair can be, for example, synthetic braided hair. Dipping the hair into the hot water makes the hair more manageable and also improves the appearance and texture of the hair. The hair apparatus holds heated water and traps steam inside the container, which helps the braided hair to set and mold into the desired style. The hair apparatus helps to set the hair without requiring the stylist to touch the hot hair. In addition, in at least some embodiments, as the hair is removed from the hair apparatus, a portion of the hair apparatus contacts the hair and causes a portion of the water to be removed from the hair. This may eliminate the need to remove the excess hot water from the hair with a towel. The steam and heat of the water causes the loose edges of the braids to lay flat and gives the braid a neat, soft, and polished appearance.

Upon filling, a body of the apparatus, or a portion thereof, may be heated, thereby heating the water within the apparatus. Heating may be accomplished via a hot plate, electric heating apparatus, kitchen range, microwave. Alternatively, heated water can be poured in to the body of the hair apparatus. In some embodiments, the apparatus is insulated, thereby allowing the device to be handled without gloves or other protective equipment. The hair apparatus can be provided with the body and the lid connected as one unit. Alternatively, the lid can be provided and then attached to a container, such as a coffee cup. Other forms of heating apparatuses are also applicable. Optionally, after heating, the apparatus may be grasped by a heat insulator cover, handle, or band.

The apparatus may then be positioned for receiving at least a portion of styled hair via the aperture noted above. Once the portion of hair is within the hair apparatus, the aperture may be reduced in size through manipulation by the hair stylist such that the aperture closes about or around the portion of the styled hair.

After manipulation of the aperture to close about the portion of the styled hair, the styled hair may be left within the apparatus for a predetermined or desired length of time. For example, the hair may be left in the hair apparatus for at least 30 seconds, for at least 45 seconds, for at least one minute, or for any other applicable length of time. The length of time that the hair is disposed in the apparatus may be dependent on the desired style of hair, the coarseness or texture of the hair, or any other applicable factor. Thereafter, the portion of the styled hair may be removed from the apparatus, and finishing touches or continued styling of the hair may be performed. Furthermore, the apparatus may be repositioned to treat other portions of the styled hair as desired.

It should be appreciated that the subject matter presented herein may be implemented as a hair treatment process or any other suitable process for ensuring a desirable appearance to styled hair is produced. While the subject matter described herein is presented in the general context of several general arrangements of a hair treatment apparatus, those skilled in the art will recognize that other implementations may be performed in combination with other types of apparatuses that may be substantially different in appearance and arrangement of those illustrated herein.

Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that aspects of the subject matter described herein may be practiced in conjunction with other processes for the treatment of hair.

In the following detailed description, references are made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and that show, by way of illustration, specific configurations or examples. The drawings herein are not drawn to scale. Like numerals represent like elements throughout the several figures (which may be referred to herein as a “FIG.” or “FIGS.”).

FIG. 1 is a schematic of a hair treatment apparatus 100, according to one configuration disclosed herein. As illustrated, the apparatus 100 includes a body 104 having a base 102 and a sidewall 106. The base 102 may be generally circular. The sidewall 106 may be in direct contact with the base 102 and together with the base 102 form a fluid-tight cavity. The base 102 and sidewall 106 can be integrally formed, for example by injection molding. Alternatively, the base 102 and sidewall 106 can be formed separately and attached by bonding, welding, thread engagement, or any other appropriate joining method. For example, the sidewall 106 may be orthogonal to the base 102 in some configurations. In other configurations the sidewall 106 may be relatively orthogonal or substantially orthogonal to the base 102. Still in other implementations, the sidewall 106 may be a slight angle to the base 102. Furthermore, the combination of the sidewall 106 and base 102 form a generally cylindrical cavity whereby a fluid such as water may be retained therein. While certain configurations are described with reference to specific shapes, such as cylindrical or circular, it is contemplated within the scope of the disclosure that the hair treatment apparatus 100, base 102, and sidewall 106 may be any appropriate shape and form any appropriate shape cavity. For example, the sidewall 106 may vary in diameter along its height to provide a desired appearance.

According to one particular implementation, the base 102 and the sidewall 106 are formed of a metallic, heat-conductive material such as stainless steel, aluminum, or copper. Each of the base 102 and the sidewall 106 may be formed of the same material, or may be formed of different materials. Furthermore, each of the base 102 and the sidewall 106 may be formed of multiple materials, such as through lamination or other processes. One such lamination arrangement may include a core of one material, and two laminated coverings of another material. In one embodiment, the core material is an evacuated air chamber. Additionally, one or both of the sidewall 106 and the base portion 102 may be formed similarly to a cooking apparatus such as a stockpot, kettle, or the like.

In another embodiment, the body 104 is constructed of a plastic material. The body 104 may be formed by an injection molding process with the base 102 and sidewall 106 being integrally formed. The body 104 can be constructed of a thermoplastic or thermoset material. For example, the body can be constructed from HDPE (high-density polyethylene), PETE (polyethylene terephthalate), polypropylene, LDPE, or any other appropriate material.

The apparatus 100 further includes a lid 108 defining an aperture 110 there through. The lid 108 may be in direct sealing contact with the sidewall 106 such that a sealed cavity is formed by the combination of the lid 108, the sidewall 106, and the base 102. Accordingly, any fluid contained within the cavity may be retained with reduced spilling or fouling.

The lid 108 may be slightly tapered as shown, may be frustoconical in shape, or may be otherwise shaped without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Additionally, the aperture 110 may be adjustable such that an overall aperture cross-sectional area can be increased or reduced. This adjustability of the aperture 110 may be facilitated by the material used to form the lid 108. For example, and without limitation, the lid 108 may be formed of an elastomeric material (such as rubber), silicone, plastic, or flexible metal. Thus, through physical manipulation, the aperture 110 may be widened or narrowed. Other forms of the lid are also within the scope of this disclosure. For example, several different non-limiting forms are described more fully with reference to FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C.

As further shown in FIG. 1, the apparatus 100 may include a heat insulated handle portion 112 attached to the sidewall 106. The handle portion 112 may be formed partially from the same material as the sidewall 106, and may be further covered with a heat insulator material, such as an elastomeric or plastic material. In this example, the heat insulator handle portion 112 may be welded, molded integrally with, or otherwise attached to the sidewall 106. The handle portion 112 may also be substantially formed of a heat insulator material and attached to the sidewall 106 via adhesive, nut and bolt, clips, or other means for attachment.

Although illustrated as protruding from the sidewall 106, it should be understood that the same may be varied such that a band 114 of heat insulator material is used in combination or instead of the protruding heat insulator handle 112. The band of material may be positioned such that a hand of a user may easily grasp the apparatus 100 while avoiding direct contact with the sidewall 106. The band of material may be limited to a band of material or may include an entire sleeve of material extending significantly about the sidewall 106. Generally, the material 114 may include any suitable insulator of heat, including plastic, rubber, silicone, quilted cotton, quilted synthetic material, felt, fabric, or other suitable materials. In other embodiments, the handle 114 is formed from a multi-layer structure with each layer separated by a volume of air. In other embodiments, the handle 114 is formed of a corrugated material. Other implementations and variations of the material 114 are also applicable to some embodiments.

In general, the apparatus 100 may be taller than it is wide. For example, the apparatus 100 may have a total length or height H1, and a total width W1, where H1>W1. Furthermore, the value of width W1 may be such that the apparatus 100 is stable when placed on a table or other stable surface. Accordingly, a user may place the apparatus 100 onto a counter or table without worry of the apparatus 100 falling over without external influence. Additionally, the value of width W1 should be wide enough that a desired amount of styled hair will easily fit within the interior of the apparatus 100. In one embodiment, the height is approximately 8 inches. In another embodiment, the height is between about 4 inches and about 12 inches. In another embodiment, the height is between about 6 and about 10 inches. The width is approximately 4 inches. In another embodiment, the width is between about 2 inches and about 6 inches. It should be understood that these are exemplary embodiments, and the apparatus 100 can have any appropriate height and width. Furthermore, styled hair including braided hair, braided hair with applied rollers, braided hair with applied decorations, styled hair with applied rollers, styled hair with applied decorations, and other variants are able to be inserted within the interior of the apparatus 100.

Turning now to FIG. 2, a perspective view of the hair treatment apparatus 100 of FIG. 1 is illustrated, according to one configuration disclosed herein. As shown in FIG. 2, the aperture 110 is defined by an edge 214. The aperture 110 is configured for receiving both water and a portion of styled hair. The edge 214 may flex or otherwise be adjustable to receive differing volumes of styled hair for treatment. Furthermore, the lid 108 may be affixed to an upper edge 218 of the sidewall 106 at a lower edge 216 of the lid 108. The lid 108 may be permanently affixed to sidewall 106, such as by adhesive or other means. Alternatively, the lid may be removably coupled to the sidewall 106. For example, the lid 108 and sidewall 106 can include complementary screw threads, which allow removable engagement of the lid 108 and the sidewall 106.

According to one implementation, the lower edge 216 of the lid 108 may extend and seal about the upper edge 218 of the sidewall 106 and affix thereto via a compressive force. For example, the lid 108 may be flexible and may be stretched over a portion of the sidewall 106. As the lid 108 returns toward its unstretched position, the lid 108 forms a seal on the sidewall.

According to another implementation, the upper edge 218 may receive the lower edge 216 and seal against the same via a compressive force. In other words, an interference fit can be formed between the lid 108 and the sidewall 106. As such, the outer diameter of the lower edge 216 of the lid 108 may be slightly larger than the diameter of the upper edge 218 of the sidewall 106. Hence, as the lid 108 is inserted into the sidewall 106, the lid 108 and/or sidewall 106 is forced to deflect to allow entry of the lid 108 into the sidewall 106. Accordingly, water or other fluid contained within the apparatus 100 may be safely contained with reduced spillage. The upper portion can engage the body 104 of the apparatus 100 by thread engagement. Alternatively, the upper portion can be attached to the body with a clip(s) or by any other form of attachment.

Turning now to FIG. 3, a perspective view of an alternate arrangement of the hair treatment apparatus of FIG. 1 is illustrated, according to one configuration disclosed herein. As shown in FIG. 3, an alternate flattened lid 312 has replaced the lid 108 of FIGS. 1 and 2. The flattened lid 312 may seal against the sidewall 106 as described above.

As shown, the lid 312 includes an aperture 310 which is adjustable as described above. The aperture 310 is defined by an edge 314 substantially similar to curved edge 214 that may flex or otherwise be adjusted to receive varying amounts of styled hair. Furthermore, the lid 312 may be affixed to an upper edge 218 of the sidewall 106 at a lower edge 316 of the lid 108.

As described above with reference to the embodiment of FIG. 2, according to one implementation, the lower edge 316 may extend and seal about the upper edge 218 and affix thereto via a compressive force. According to another implementation, the upper edge 218 may receive the lower edge 316 and seal against the same via a compressive force. Accordingly, water or other fluid contained within the apparatus 300 may be safely contained with reduced spillage.

It is noted that although the illustrations of FIGS. 2 and 3 lack the material band 114 described in reference to FIG. 1, the same may be included without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

As described above, the lids 108 and 312 may be adjustable to receive varying amounts of styled hair. Furthermore, the adjustable apertures of each of lids 108 and 312 may be arranged to gently remove excess water from styled hair via a light squeegee effect, described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 4A-4C and FIG. 5, below. FIGS. 4A-4C are overhead views of adjustable apertures useable in connection with the hair treatment apparatuses illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, according to one configuration disclosed herein.

FIG. 4A illustrates an elastomeric lid 402 having a main body 408 and a sealing edge 404. The main body 408 may be flattened, frustoconical, or any other appropriate geometric shape. The main body 408 of the lid 402 may be formed of silicone, flexible plastic, flexible metal, or a flexible elastomeric material such as rubber. The lid 402 may include a sealing edge 404 for affixing and sealing to the sidewall 106 as described above. The main body 408 of the lid 402 may also attach to or detach from the edge of the sidewall 106. Furthermore, the main body 408 may include an aperture 406 that is adjustable based on the flexing of the main body 408. In some embodiments, in an initial, unstretched configuration the diameter of the aperture is about 1 cm. In another embodiment, the unstretched diameter of the aperture is up to about 3 cm. In another embodiment, the unstretched diameter of the aperture is between 0.5 cm and about 5 cm. The lid 402 will deform such that the aperture conforms to the shape of the hair that is inserted therein. The aperture may maintain a circular shape. In at least one embodiment, the lid 402 is configured such that the diameter of the aperture can increase to about 5 cm. Alternatively, the aperture may take on a different shape based on the hair that is inserted therein. Providing a lid which has an aperture that is adjustable to conform to the hair inserted therein prevents steam from escaping from the apparatus, thereby improving the efficacy of the treatment and improving the appearance and texture of the hair.

Additionally, the aperture 406 may be adjustable based on movement of a lever or mechanical device. For example, a rigid or semi-rigid member may extend at least partially proximate to the aperture 406 allowing at least partial adjustment of the size of the aperture 406 via manipulation of the member. Manipulation of the member may be facilitated with a sliding switch, lever, button or suitable mechanical device. The aperture may also be opened and closed by rotating a portion of the lid. For example, as a portion of the lid is rotated to the left the aperture reduces in size, as a portion of the lid is rotated to the right the aperture increases in size. Alternatively, rotating a portion of the lid to the left increases the size of the aperture and rotating a portion of the lid to the right decreases the size of the aperture. In such embodiments, the lid may include collapsing and/or movable plates (as described below), flexible rubber, plastic plates that extend from the walls to adjusts to the hair, or any other material that adjusts flexibly to the thickness of the hair in the apparatus.

When removing hair from the interior of an apparatus 100 having the lid 402 affixed thereto, an interior curved edge, of the aperture 406 gently scrapes away excess water via a squeegee effect. The shape of the edge of the aperture can be chosen to provide this effect. For example, in one embodiment, the lid tapers as it approaches the aperture to provide a relatively thin edge. In one embodiment, the thickness of the edge is about 2.5 mm. In another embodiment, the thickness of the edge is between about 1 mm and about 3 mm. The edge of the aperture 406 can include a fillet. Alternatively, the edge can include a chamfer.

FIG. 4B illustrates a lid 412 comprised of movable plates 418 that extend from a sealing edge 414 inward to create an adjustable aperture 416. The aperture 416 may increase and decrease in size via turning of a portion of the lid 412 or actuation by a lever or mechanical device, as described above with reference to FIG. 4A. For example, the mechanical device may include a switch, button, or lever configured to open/close the aperture 416 through movement of individual moveable plates 418. Each individual moveable plate 418 may be formed of plastic, metal, rubber, or any sufficiently rigid material that allows the plates 418 to slide against one another while increasing and decreasing the size of the aperture 416. Although not particularly illustrated, it is understood that any mechanical device, lever, or other actuation device may be formed of the same or differing material. In some regards, the aperture 416 is adjustable in a similar manner as a camera aperture, and thus similar adjustment mechanisms may be used in this implementation, if desired. Additionally, when removing hair from the interior of an apparatus 100 having the lid 412 affixed thereto, an interior curved edge of the aperture 416 gently scrapes away excess water via a squeegee effect.

In one embodiment, as shown in detail in FIGS. 6A-6C, a lid 600 includes a first ring 602 configured to releasably engage the sidewall 106 of the body 104. For example, as shown in FIG. 6A, the first ring 602 can include a skirt 603 with internal threads 612. The internal threads 612 are configured to engage corresponding threads on the exterior of the sidewall 106. Alternatively, the first ring 602 can include external threads configured to engage internal threads of the sidewall 106. The first ring 602 defines a central axis. The lid 600 also includes a plurality of plates 606 extending from the first ring toward the aperture. Each of the plurality of plates 606 includes a pin 611 extending therefrom. The lid 600 also includes a second ring 604 having a plurality of slots 610. In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 6A-6C, the plurality of slots 610 are each arcuate. Each pin 611 of the plurality of plates 606 is disposed in a respective one of the plurality of slots 610. Rotation of the second ring 604 causes the plurality of plates 606 to rotate and extend toward the central axis to reduce the diameter of the aperture 605. As a result, the aperture 605 can be closed around a portion of hair that is inserted through the aperture 605. When the aperture 605 is closed around the portion of hair, steam may be prevented from escaping from the hair treatment apparatus, thereby enhancing the efficacy of the treatment.

The first ring 602 can include a window 607 to allow for connection of the second ring 604 to an actuator 608. This allows the user to rotate the second ring 604 to adjust the size of the aperture 605. In one embodiment, the actuator 608 includes a pair of flex arms 614 and the second ring 604 includes a recess 616 for receiving the flex arms 614. During assembly, the flex arms 614 are inserted through window 607 of the skirt 603 of the first ring 602 to engage the recess 616. The lid 600 can include more than one actuator. For example, the lid 600 can include two actuators on opposite sides of the lid 600. Alternatively, the actuator 608 can be coupled to the second ring 604 using any appropriate technique, including, but not limited to, adhesive, press-fit, screws, or other fasteners.

The lid 600 can include any number of plates 606. In one embodiment, the lid 600 includes 10 plates. In another embodiment, the lid 600 includes between 8 and 12 plates 606. In another embodiment, the lid 600 includes between 6 and 14 plates 606. In one embodiment, the plates 606 are constructed from plastic. The plates 606 can also include an elastomeric portion, for example, a portion which is overmolded with an elastomeric portion. The elastomeric portion can be configured to contact the hair and provide a squeegee effect to remove water from the hair.

In addition, the plates 606 can be configured to automatically close toward their inner position. For example, a biasing member, such as a torsion spring, can be included in the lid 600 to bias the plates 606 toward their inner position. The torsion spring can be engaged with the second ring 604 to bias the second ring 604 in a first direction. As such, the plates 606 will automatically extend inward to engage the hair. When desired, the user can rotate the second ring 604 in the opposite direction to retract the plates 606. The user can lock the second ring 604 and plates 606 in the open position. For example, a detent can be used to hold the second ring 604 in this open position.

FIG. 4C illustrates a lid 422 formed of an elastomeric material, sealed fabric, or other suitable flexible material. The lid 422 includes a sealing edge 424 for sealing and affixing to sidewall 106. The sealing edge 424 for sealing and affixing to the sidewall 106 may be attachable and detachable from the main body 428 of the lid 422. Furthermore, the lid 422 includes a main body portion 428 with an aperture 426 formed therein. The aperture 426 is surrounded by a curved channel 430 having a void therein for receiving cord or a length of material 432/434. By loosening or tightening the length of material 432/434, the aperture 426 increases and decreases in size, respectively. Additionally, when removing hair from the interior of an apparatus 100 having the lid 422 affixed thereto, an interior curved edge of the aperture 426 gently scrapes away excess water via a squeegee effect.

The cord 432/434 can be tied to maintain the aperture at a fixed diameter. Alternatively, a toggle cord lock can be affixed to the cord 432/434 and positioned such that length of cord within the channel 430 is fixed, thereby fixing the diameter of the aperture 426. Advantageously, as the length of material within the channel 430 is adjusted, the aperture 426 maintains a generally circular shape. As a result, as the hair is removed through the aperture 426, substantially equal pressure is applied around the hair as it is removed. This aids in the even removal of water from the hair.

In another embodiment, shown in FIGS. 7A-7C, a lid 700 includes a first ring 702, a second ring 704, and a plurality of plates 706 that are configured for radial movement with respect to the lid's central axis. The first ring 702 can include threads 712 configured to engage complementary threads on the sidewall 106. An elastomeric band 718 is engaged with the inner edge of each of the plurality of plates 706. The elastomeric band 718 biases the plates 706 toward an inner position. The plates 706 can be actuated in a variety of ways. For example, slots 710 defined by the second ring 704 may engage pins 711 of the plates 706. In this embodiment, the slots 710 are angled slots and the plates 706 are constrained to translate in the radial direction in response to rotation of the second ring 704. A detent can be used to lock the plates 706 in their retracted position. After insertion of the hair through the aperture, the detent can be released, thereby allowing the plates 706 to translate radially inward in response to the biasing force introduced by the elastomeric band 718. As such, the plates 706 automatically translate inward and contact the hair and adjust to the size of the braid. In addition, the elastomeric band 718 provides a squeegee effect to remove water from the hair.

In an alternative embodiment, a second ring 704 includes a plurality of cam surfaces contacting the plates 706. In response to rotation of the second ring 704 the cam surfaces contact the plates 706 and cause them to translate radially.

Any appropriate actuation mechanism can be used to rotate the second ring 704 and, thereby, retract the plates 706. For example, an actuator 708, disposed on the outer perimeter of first ring 702 can be engaged with second ring 704. As described above, the first ring 702 can include a window 707 through which flex arms 714 of the actuator pass to engage a recess 716 of the second ring 704.

As described above, a hair treatment apparatus is disclosed having an adjustable aperture and an internal cavity for reserving water. The water reserved in the hair treatment apparatus may be heated while in the hair treatment apparatus and subsequently used for treatment of hair. The adjustable aperture may be closed about the hair to be treated thereby reducing spillage and increasing safety of use as compared to conventional hair treatment processes. The risk of spilling the hot water is thereby reduced, The adjustable apertures may take a variety of forms, and both the apparatus and a lid thereof may be formed of a variety of materials. In addition, by enclosing the hair, steam is retained within the apparatus. This improves the efficacy of the treatment and the appearance of the hair. Hereinafter, a method of hair treatment using any of the apparatuses presented above is described with reference to FIG. 6.

FIG. 5 is a diagram presenting a method of hair treatment, according to one configuration disclosed herein. As illustrated, a portion of hair 502 comprising either styled hair, braided hair, or unstyled hair, may be received in a hair treatment apparatus 504. Apparatus 504 may be the apparatus 100 or 300, and may include a lid 108, 312, 402, 412, or 422, and any combination thereof. The apparatus 504 may include a volume 506 for storing heated water. The portion of hair 502 may be lowered into the heated water within the volume 506. After inserting the portion of hair 502, the adjustable aperture of the apparatus may be closed about the portion of hair 502 to limit spillage of heated water.

Upon expiration of a predetermined or desired amount of time, the portion of hair 502 may be removed from the apparatus 504 while the outer edges of the portion of hair 502 release water against a curved edge of the adjustable aperture. This may be described as a squeegee effect where excess water is gently scraped from the styled hair via the curved edge of the adjustable aperture. In this manner, excess heated water falls from the portion of hair 502 and back into the apparatus 504 thereby limiting the possibility of burning the consumer and the user of the apparatus 504. Thereafter, the apparatus 504 may be repositioned to treat a different portion of hair and the adjustable aperture may again be opened to allow insertion of the additional hair. Furthermore, if desired, the apparatus 504 may be placed on a stable table, counter or other surface while continued styling of hair is occurring.

Based on the foregoing, it should be appreciated that technologies for treatment of hair with heated water and, potentially, other aspects of the treatment of hair with different liquids have been presented herein. Moreover, although the subject matter presented herein has been described in language specific to a particular apparatus and methodological acts, it is to be understood that the invention defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features, acts, or media described herein. Rather, the specific features, acts, and media are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.

The subject matter described above is provided by way of illustration only and should not be construed as limiting. Furthermore, the claimed subject matter is not limited to implementations that solve any or all disadvantages noted in any part of this disclosure. Various modifications and changes may be made to the subject matter described herein without following the example embodiments and applications illustrated and described, and without departing from the true spirit and scope of the present invention, which is set forth in the following claims. 

1.-4. (canceled)
 5. A hair treatment apparatus, comprising: a base; a sidewall in direct contact with and extending from the base, wherein the base and sidewall define a cavity configured for receiving a liquid; and a lid coupled to the sidewall opposite to the base, the lid defining an adjustable aperture configured for receiving a portion of hair for treatment in the liquid, whereby a diameter of the aperture can be adjusted to conform to the portion of hair.
 6. The hair treatment apparatus of claim 5, wherein the lid comprises: a first ring configured to releasably engage the sidewall, wherein the first ring defines an aperture and a central axis; a plurality of plates extending from the first ring toward the aperture, each of the plurality of plates including a pin extending therefrom; a second ring defining a plurality of slots, each of the plurality of pins disposed in a respective one of the plurality of slots; wherein rotation of the second ring causes the plurality of plates to extend toward the central axis to reduce a diameter of the aperture, whereby the aperture can be closed around a portion of hair inserted through the aperture.
 7. The hair treatment apparatus of claim 5, wherein the lid comprises a channel circumscribing the aperture and a cord disposed in the channel, and wherein the aperture is configured to reduce in diameter from a first diameter to a second diameter in response to a change of length of material within the channel.
 8. The hair treatment apparatus of claim 5, wherein the base and the sidewall are formed of metal.
 9. The hair treatment apparatus of claim 8, wherein the metal is selected from the group consisting of aluminum, stainless steel, and copper.
 10. The hair treatment apparatus of claim 5, wherein the sidewall is formed of a lamination of a core material between two layers of a plastic.
 11. The hair treatment apparatus of claim 5, wherein the lid is constructed from a material selected from the group consisting of fabric, rubber, silicone, plastic, and an elastomeric material.
 12. The hair treatment apparatus of claim 5, wherein the sidewall is cylindrical.
 13. The hair treatment apparatus of claim 5, further comprising a handle portion affixed to, or extending from, the sidewall.
 14. The hair treatment apparatus of claim 13, wherein the handle portion is at least partially formed from a heat insulator.
 15. The hair treatment apparatus of claim 5, wherein the liquid is water.
 16. The hair treatment apparatus of claim 5, wherein the lid is fixedly coupled to the cylindrical sidewall.
 17. The hair treatment apparatus of claim 5, wherein the lid is removably coupled to the cylindrical sidewall.
 18. A method of hair treatment, comprising: heating a liquid inside a hair treatment apparatus, the apparatus including a base, a sidewall in direct contact with and extending from the base, and a lid engaged with the sidewall opposite to the base, the lid having an adjustable aperture configured for receiving a portion of hair for treatment in the liquid, wherein the base and sidewall form a cavity configured for receiving the liquid; inserting a portion of hair for treatment into the hair treatment apparatus via the adjustable aperture; tightening the adjustable aperture about the portion of hair; allowing a predetermined or desired amount of time to lapse while the portion of hair is in at least partial contact with the heated liquid; and removing the portion of hair from the apparatus.
 19. The method of claim 18, further comprising, after the tightening step, allowing a predetermined amount of time to elapse while the portion of hair is in at least partial contact with the heated liquid.
 20. The method of claim 18, wherein the tightening step includes rotating a first ring of the lid to cause a plurality of plates to extend toward a longitudinal axis of the sidewall and reduce a diameter of the aperture. 